The Role of Support Staff in Implementing SEL

| By: Kim Gulbrandson

by Dr. Kim Gulbrandson

I first thought about writing this blog because I would really like to know how support staff (guidance counselors, school psychologists, social workers, etc.) are involved with the implementation of social-emotional learning (SEL) throughout the nation. We are often so isolated working within our buildings that we don’t have the opportunity to learn about what others are doing to support programs such as Second Step and Steps to Respect. Since our roles are varied, I was hoping this blog could provide opportunity to learn some ideas from others.

As a school psychologist, I have learned that supporting implementation is more effective than just implementing lessons for teachers. SEL is most successful when implemented schoolwide and when a majority of staff buy into the program. Support staff can be excellent people to assist the schoolwide implementation team with realizing their vision of SEL.

Regardless of whether schoolwide SEL is established yet, there are also other successful ways for helping teachers. This may include supporting extension activities after teachers teach the lessons. Teachers also may appreciate extra support with role plays and small group activities, or with making materials that help reinforce the SEL skills.

The role of support staff in supporting positive behaviors has also become apparent with PBIS Tier 2 groups. Here is some food for thought: If students have Second Step at the Tier 1 level, providing extra Tier 2 pull-out support for students is helpful. However, if the struggling students are taught only in pull-out groups (and Second Step is not provided for the whole class at Tier 1), students often don’t use the skills because neither the teacher nor the other students in the classroom will help reinforce the skills if they have not been exposed to them as well.

If you have a 4th edition Second Step kit, you may also want to check out the Counselor-Teacher Toolkit on www.secondstep.org.  Just register your kit, and click on the grade level you are working with. Then, click the following links: Teaching Guides, Second Step Teaching Guide (click the guide appropriate to your grade level) and Counselor-Teacher Toolkit (under Teaching the Program).

What role do you have in supporting SEL programs at the classroom level? Schoolwide level? District level? What are some lessons you have learned in supporting SEL?